In interpretation, I appreciate natural acting in most events with the exception of Humorous. I believe you can be fully animated in Humorous Interpretation. ALWAYS have a purpose for your blocking. If you have blocking just for the sake of blocking or tech, I will rank you down. It is better to have real emotion than "fake crying" or a "crying voice." Always be true to your character(s). Have a purpose or theme for the piece that is chosen.

In Congress, I look for three simple aspects of a clean and organized speech, stay true to yourself in the round, have a true passion for the topic that you speak on. Some other things I look at is your presence in the room please do not be rude to other competitors. Make sure to have enough knowledge on the topic that is spoken on.

Congress:

How the speech is presented is as important as its construction.

Looking for organized speeches with some kind of evidence (real-world impacts; examples/references, context/background).

Prefer extemporaneous speeches to ones that are read from a script.

Prefer conversational, dynamic speaking style with good eye contact.

Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through your speeches; that keeps the round interesting!

Make your questions count; well-thought out questions that help bolster your side of the debate could make a difference in where you are ranked.

Always looking for speakers who respond to questions directly; Answers should demonstrate you have done your research on the topics.

It's always good to point back to the bill or amendment during the debate; remind us of the heart or spirit of the legislation. Refer back to previous AFF/NEG speeches on the legislation. Build on your side's arguments as the debate progresses.

Original thinking and creativity is a bonus!

Stay engaged during the round, and demonstrate you are actively listening to the opposing side's arguments.

Effective POs will receive a high ranking as long as they demonstrate leadership and keep the round running smoothly. Don't let the room get stuck, and help ensure everyone gets a chance to speak. Outstanding POs can receive first in the round.

Interp Events:

Have fun! Relax!

The best intros represent your own voice/perspective, provide a little background to prepare us for what we are about to watch and set up the proper mood/tone for the selection.

Looking for well-developed characters, complete with consistent voice, stance/posture/placement, mannerisms and facial expressions.

Multiple characters should be distinct, and transitions between characters should be polished and smooth.

Creative blocking/movement/use of folder is definitely a bonus! But be sure the movement has purpose and does not detract from the performance.

Please don't forget to have fun with your performance and don't be afraid to let your personality shine through the selection. That will always help bring the story to life.

Whether you are in person or speaking virtually, public speaking skills stand out. Work for "eye contact" as opposed to reading speeches in debate events. Keep in mind that I need to be able to see and hear you clearly. Stand up and speak up. Speak with conviction and confidence. Perform with confidence. NO ONE knows your material better than you! (Even if you do not know your topic/material/case as well as you or miss a word, how would I know?! You need to sell me your side/piece/speech. Make me want to keep listening to you after the time has run out!)

As a congress judge, I will remind you that it is called Congressional DEBATE and not Congressional Speechmaking. Take time to refute the Representatives/Senators before you. Answer and ask questions with purpose and confidence. Be clear about evidence--in other words: HAVE SOME! Anyone that is brave enough to PO needs to know the procedure and must be able to be fair and unbiased.

For CX and LD, speed is not always your friend-- especially if we are virtual. Slowing down and articulation are the keys to a good debate. Also, Clash is not just a band from the '80s. I expect to be given solid reasons to vote for you. Perhaps use the last 30 sec of your last speech to crystalize the round for me. Tell me what is important. I may not be a fan of your K or CP, but if you present it well and defend it against attacks, I will vote on it.

I have been a volunteer judge for 18 years for East High School. In those 18 years I have judged all levels including TFA state and Nationals. In 2022 I had the pleasure of judging P.O.I finals at Nationals. Over the years I have judge everything from debate to i.e events. I am a firm believer that speech and debate gives the competitors a voice. It teaches them to see all sides of an argument so they can make an informed decision.

Debate: When it comes to debate (CX,LD,PF). Linking evidence is important. When it comes to LD and PF, there is no need to spread. In Policy debate, if you spread, make sure everyone can understand you. If I can not understand you I cannot flow. In all debates I like to see clash. When making my decision I take the entire debate into consideration. I always leave my personal opinions at the door, there is no place for them in speech and debate. I strongly believe that debate should be a safe place for kids and that they should be treated with respect.

Congress: I vote on actively within the chamber. I look at speeches, questions, and how you answer those questions. I also look to see if you have paid attention to what other representatives have said. I like to see engagement within the chamber. Please do not just read your speech! I also like a P.O to run a smooth organized chamber and know the rules. If a P.O is new and is trying I do take that into consideration. I know it can be hard and stressful doing something you normally do not do. It is import and that kids are able to give their speeches without being criticized or distracted.

Extemp: I want to hear evidence from good sources. I look for original takes on the topics. I do not like kids reading their speech’s. I want to hear their opinions and take on it. Remember, tell me what you are going to tell me, tell me, and then wrap it up in a conclusion.

I.E: In POI and OO I look for pieces that are important to the competitors. This is a great platform to allow competitors to express their views on different subjects. I want to see that passion to speak out and get that message across.